2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1981 Talbot Samba
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Talbot Samba. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Talbot Samba would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (113 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1981 Talbot Samba. (49 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1981 Talbot Samba. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 740 kg more than 1981 Talbot Samba. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (289 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Talbot Samba. (85 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Talbot Samba.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1981 Talbot Samba | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Talbot |
| Model | 156 | Samba |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1123 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 69 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2350 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 40 L |
